Concord February 27th 1873

Dear Miss Chandler, I was summoned from St. Louis by telegram announcing Anna's illness, and hastened home leaving many engagements unfulfilled. On reaching home I found Anna out of danger. She is now about the house again, though still feeble and shiftless. The rest of us are in usual health. [page break] I have had a delightful time, have made new acquaintances, and renewed former ones in those Western homes. I think I wrote you hastily, (was it from Davenport?) I certainly received a full letter in reply, for which many thanks. I wish you could visit the West and meet people in home circles as I have done. You must see and enjoy their free graceful hospitalities to appre- ciate fully any description. Shall I tell you, (and this without disparagement of the East) that [page break] I really feel lonely and misplaced here. Shall I say, less at home. than in those sensible, sympathetic circles? Will you believe it? I must find occasion to tell you all [underline] somewhere [/underline], and more [—-ly] than by the pen. Will you find time and pleasure in seeing me at Louisa's room? And [underline] when [/underline] shall it be? I propose being in Boston early next week, and if you will name the day and hour, let me see you there. Will you? Little [page break] Johnny is passing some days with his Aunt Louisa, and I am to bring him home on my return. I hope you have had a happy, interesting winter, and escaped the prevailing distempers. All that and more you shall speak if I may have the pleasure of listening. My pen refuses writing all that the holder dictates, and only ventures modestly. Yours affectionately, A. Bronson Alcott

Miss Chandler